Chapter 2: Group Work: Stages and Issues Introduction to Group Work, 5th Edition Edited by David Capuzzi, Douglas R. Gross, and Mark D. Stauffer

Stages and Transitions Early Conceptualizations Bennis and Sheppard (1956) Developmental stages of groups in terms of an dependence/independence cycle Dependence—flight Counterdependence—fight Resolution—catharsis Enchantment—flight Disenchantment—fight Consensual validation

Stages and Transitions Current Conceptualizations Groups move through six different stages Formation: Pre-group planning Member inclusion (orientation, security) Member interaction (storming, transition, conflict, acceptance) Member and group cohesion (norming, action, conflict, responsibility, cohesiveness) Member and group achievement (performing, working) Member and group parting (adjourning, termination, closing)

Stage One Labeled by terms forming, exploratory, orientation, security Includes preparatory work that needs to take place prior to group formation Member inclusion in the group process A period of definition for group members Characterized by anxiety and dependence

Stage Two Labeled by terms storming, transition, conflict, acceptance, orientation Characterized by active personal involvement Action and reaction Movement from passive involvement to risk taking

Stage Three Labeled by terms norming, action, conflict, responsibility, and transition Cohesiveness Standardization Role clarification Intimacy Inclusion Conflict resolution

Stages Four, Five, and Six Labeled by terms performing, termination, cohesiveness, consolidation, and follow-up Developing roles Resolving issues Self-disclosure Honesty Behavioral reaffirmations Ending

Definitive Stage (Capuzzi & Gross) Formative/developmental Characteristic questions “Can I fit into this type of group?” “Can I trust the leader and other members?” “Will I be hurt?

Personal Involvement Stage (Capuzzi & Gross) Action Reaction Interaction Characteristic statements “I need.” “I care.”

Group Involvement Stage (Capuzzi & Gross) Self-evaluation and assessment Cooperation Cohesiveness Problem exploration Characteristic references “Insider” “Outsider”

Enhancement and Closure Stage (Capuzzi & Gross) Evaluation Characteristic statements “I was…, now I am…” “I felt…, now I feel…” “I didn’t…, now I do…” “I couldn’t…, now I can…”